The Joy of the Lord is my Strength

"In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while, if need be, you have been grieved by various trials, that the genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ," (1 Peter 1:6-7).

Though I cannot share with all of you the struggles that have faced me in these last few weeks, I do want to share with you the joy that our Lord has given me through them. 

Praise the Lord for His work of transformation. At vespers/prayer meeting on Friday night, I started to cry when the pastor asked me how my week went, but by vespers on Sabbath evening I was singing and full of joy. Jesus truly poured out His Sabbath blessing on me. Through church service, Sabbath school, united prayer, and nature He gave rest to my soul. He took my sorrow and traded it for joy. Psalm 126:5 says, "Those who sow in tears shall reap in joy," and it has been proven true in my life. 

As I watched the sun set and the full moon rise, as I felt the strength of the wind and and the power of the sea, as I sang with God's people to end God's day, He created a new heart in me, and wiped my tears away. Worshiping in the wonders of creation filled me with love for my Creator, Who not only made me, but also sustains me. 

"For the Lord is good; His mercy is everlasting, and His truth endures to all generations," (Psalm 100:5)